Doctors Said Jerky Legs Can Be Treated

WASHINGTON- It has been called everything from the 'heebie jeebies' to the fidgets.

Restless Leg Syndrome is a neurological disorder that many individuals experience across the country.

Ed Murfin suffers from RLS. He said it feels like ants are creeping and crawling on the inside of his legs.

"You want to sit still and you just can't do it because you start twitching and worming around in your chair," he said.

RLS tends to get worse at night and can lead to sleep deprivation.

The condition has become so common until support groups have formed to help individuals.

Penny Tenzer, a doctor at the University of Miami School of Medicine, said the Food and Drug Administration has approved two medications to help people control their 'jerky legs'.

She said the medication is similar to drugs given to individuals who suffer from Parkinson's disease.

Other treatment Tenzer recommends for RLS sufferers is to avoid drinking caffeine and alcohol.

In addition, doing some exercise before going to sleep at night can help.

"That actually works," she said.

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